I am using the daily Bible reading schedule from “The Bible.net” for my daily Bible reading.

Today, I am reading and commenting on Isaiah 13-16.

    Today’s passage describes how the destruction of a powerful nation will bring tragedy and destruction beyond its borders. The prophet Isaiah prophesies the fall of Babylon before Babylon had risen to dominance. He warns against celebrating that fall, since it will have far reaching impact. The fall of Babylon (or perhaps the fall of Assyria) will lead to death and destruction in other nations as well. There are really two messages in this passage. One I have already mentioned: the destruction of a powerful nation will have disastrous consequences for other nations which might wish for that destruction. We should pray that the wicked turn from their sins before God’s judgment falls upon them because the results of God’s judgment will be unpleasant, at best, for everyone.

    The second message is that no matter how powerful a nation or person, when God casts judgment on it, or them, they will be brought down. In the long run, each and every one of us will face death and the grave. The rich and powerful will in the end face the same fate as the poor and destitute. All will be held accountable by God and the power you accumulate in this world will not protect you from His judgment.